Nana Jackson's Chocolate Chip Cupcakes

2 cups raisins- Soak in 1 cup boiling water

1 cup shortening

2 cups sugar

3 eggs

1 tsp. vanilla

3/4 cup milk

4 cups flour

1 tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. baking powder

2 tsp. salt

1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon

1/2 tsp. nutmeg

1/2 tsp. allspice

1- 12 oz. package chocolate chips

1/2 to 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Preheat oven to 375 degrees and grease muffin tins or line with paper baking cups. Soak raisins and set aside to cool. Cream together shortening and sugar. Add eggs and beat well then add in vanilla and milk. In a separate bowl, combine dry ingredients and slowly add to the mixture. Drain raisins and stir in along with chocolate chips and nuts if desired. Fill muffin cups about 2/3 full and bake for 15-18 minutes or until tops are lightly browned. Makes about 3 dozen.

My grandmothers original recipe says "No need to frost. They stay moist and freeze well."